With deep regret, we inform you that Ralph Murray, former long time General Manager of the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association, passed away June 5 in Medicine Hat. Ralph came to the CPRA after a long and successful career with the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede, host of two professional rodeos. During Ralph's time as CPRA General Manager, the association was restructured and rodeo reached a whole new level of exposure and credibility as a sport. Ralph was instrumental in the introduction of the Budweiser Pro Rodeo Series and the Copenhagen-Dodge Series whereby champions were awarded Ram Rodeo trucks. Ralph was a member of the CFR commission and in recent years, coordinated CPRA animal welfare efforts bringing rodeo into a more positive light on animal rights issues. Even within the last few months, Ralph helped to finalize the process to change the governance of the CPRA which will further transform Rodeo Canada for the better. CPRA office staff frequently turned to Ralph with questions on protocol.  Someone could argue the reason behind a bylaw or a rule and all you would have to do was ask Ralph for the answer. Ralph was a mentor and a friend and could always be counted on whenever you needed him for whatever it was. This association is truly indebted to Ralph and all that he has done. He will be missed tremendously. Ralph was inducted into the Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame in 2011. We extend our sincere condolences to Ralph's family and many friends. * Ralph's funeral was held at 10:00 am on Saturday, June 8 at the Mormon Stake Centre in Medicine Hat. (7 Sierra Blvd, SW) * The CPRA is collecting stories, pictures and memories of Ralph Murray. If you have items to share, please send them to editor@rodeocanada.com or call the CPRA at 403 945-0903.